Orleans singer Larry Hoppen dies at 61

Ulster County musicians and residents are mourning the loss of Larry Hoppen, co-founder of the Woodstock band Orleans, who died Tuesday at age 61.

Deborah Medenbach

Ulster County musicians and residents are mourning the loss of Larry Hoppen, co-founder of the Woodstock band Orleans, who died Tuesday at age 61.

His death was announced Wednesday on his official Facebook page by his wife, Patricia Hoppen.

"For those who don't already know, Larry passed away yesterday ... I know he will be missed," the message read. "I will (ask) that my family's privacy be respected during this horrible time."

Hoppen had been living in Florida. The cause of death was unknown at press time.

Hoppen, with John Hall and Wells Kelly, formed Orleans in Woodstock in 1972. Hoppen's brother Lance and Jerry Marotta would later join the group, creating the classic-period quintet that released the 1976 album "Waking and Dreaming," which included the monster hit "Still the One."

Follow-up album "Forever" brought another smash, "Love Takes Time."

Hall, also former 19th Congressional District representative, was somber when speaking of his lifelong musical partner.

"I can tell you after 40 years of working together we made music that is known around the world," he said. "His distinctive tenor voice will be recognizable on radio and recordings for a long time to come. I'm grateful to have worked with him."

Orleans, led by Hoppen but without Hall, still toured regularly; the band canceled three upcoming weekend performances because of Hoppen's death.

Fellow musician Robbie Dupree wept as he spoke of Hoppen.

"I was friends with Larry for 40 years. We played in bands together and toured the world," said the Woodstock resident. "I never met a more natural and gifted musician, great father and husband. The whole music community grieves at his loss."

Hoppen strongly supported the work of Queens Galley in Kingston, enlisting Orleans to play a fundraiser for the soup kitchen, and becoming a board member of the organization.

"He's been such a champion for us for years," said Diane Reeder, director of the Queens Galley.

"To lose someone who's got your back at all times is nothing short of devastating. He may no longer have had a home here, but in his heart he never left," she said.

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